Kharif Season Foodgrain Production Expected to Exceed Target

23-Sep-2025 07:56 PM

New Delhi. The Central Agriculture Commissioner stated that due to a significant increase in sown area and adequate monsoon rainfall, gross foodgrain production in the 2025-26 Kharif season is expected to exceed the government target of 17,139 crore tonnes.

Similarly, despite normal acreage under pulses and a decrease in oilseeds, the production outlook remains positive. Crop condition is good, and yield rates are expected to increase.

According to the Agriculture Commissioner, in the current Kharif season, surplus rainfall and floods have caused minor crop damage compared to the gross sown area. He stated that crop conditions are satisfactory, and foodgrain production will not fall short of the target.

The gross sown area of ​​Kharif crops is expected to surpass last year's level and reach an all-time high of 1100 lakh hectares. Its five-year average area is estimated at 1097 lakh hectares.

This has led to a significant increase in the area sown, particularly for rice and maize. Although some areas are reporting damage to Kharif crops due to torrential rains, waterlogging, and flooding, this figure is small compared to the vast area under cultivation. The actual damage will only be assessed after the floodwaters recede.

Although soybean sown area has decreased, the overall crop condition is quite good. The situation is similar for pulses.

The remaining pulse and oilseed crops may see a significant increase in yield. Harvesting preparations for early-sown crops have begun in some areas and are expected to pick up pace next month.